Brentford are the biggest success story in the Premier League at the moment. Despite being picked by pundits and fans alike for relegation at the end of the season, they are currently fifth in the Premier League table.
Unbeaten in the league since December 6, the Bees are starting to look like a formidable outfit. Much of the praise must be given to head coach Keith Andrews, who was unfairly disrespected by several audiences before the season began.
Today, we’ll take a look at how they’re doing it. Additionally, we’ll also take a look at their record against the big six and speculate on what the future might hold for this group of players.
How Keith Andrews galvanised Brentford
When Keith Andrews joined Brentford, Thomas Frank left a good squad behind him. Therefore, little needed to be done, but Andrews was keen to make his mark nonetheless.
A set-piece coach by trade, Andrews began to put a focus on dead-ball scenarios. This has certainly come in handy – they have scored nine goals from set plays this season – but it has proved to be just another weapon in their arsenal, rather than a complete revolution.
In short, the pieces were already in place for Andrews to be successful. Despite this, he has shown a great tactical understanding to identify this – many other head coaches would have tried to reinvent the wheel, rather than focusing on what worked previously.
On top of this, he also made some intelligent signings – the best of which was probably Jordan Henderson, who has been orchestrating their midfield since his arrival at the club.
Brentford might be in a position where they can compete against the biggest clubs in the division – but how does their record against the big six hold up?
Brentford’s record against the big six in 2025/26 (all comps)
Won Drawn Lost
Arsenal 0 0 1
Liverpool 1 0 0
Man United 1 0 0
Man City 0 0 2
Spurs 0 1 1
Chelsea 0 1 0
As you can see, Brentford’s record against the top six is solid, if unspectacular. Wins over Manchester United and Liverpool were monumental, but they have fallen to defeat in four of their eight games against the big six across all competitions this season.
Understandably, they have lost all their games against the two strongest teams in the big six (Arsenal and Manchester City). However, it seems odd that they have struggled against Tottenham, who have been in turgid form as of late. On top of this, Spurs were the last team to beat them in the league.
They’ll be taking on a member of the big six in their next Premier League outing, when the Bees come to blows with Chelsea. Can they cause yet another upset?
Where will Brentford finish in the Premier League this season?
It seems unlikely that Brentford will maintain their current position, but with so many big hitters failing to find form, there is no reason as to why they cannot finish in the top seven.
As we saw earlier, they have a respectable record against the big six – on top of this, Andrews’ knowledge of set-pieces is an excellent equaliser for them.
Of course, a few injuries to top players – such as Igor Thiago or Vitaly Janelt – could clip the Bees’ wings, but if they can avoid this, Brentford should be able to record at least a top half finish in 2025/26.